GOTTERDAMMERUNG

One of the most unique bands of the early-80's Italian prog scene,ASGARD were formed in their original form in 1987 in Treviso,featuring Massimo Michieletto on guitars,Marco Michieletto on drums,Glauco Giacchello on bass and Alberto Ambrosi on keyboards.The band promoted themselves through magazines,TV/radio show and live gigs and participated in two compilations, ''Italian rock invasion'' and ''Exposure 88''.Giachello left to be replaced by Chris Bianchi d'Espinosa and Kikko Grosso on vocals.With this line-up they signed with WMMS and recorded their debut '' Gotterdammerung'' in 1991.

STYLE: This is a stunning and unusual mix of dark,almost Gothic Symphonic Rock and Marillion-esque Neo Prog.Lots of floating and flashy synths combine with distorted guitars under a mysterious dark production to create a very unique soundscape overall.Kikko Grosso sounds very theatrical in a Fish-like voice costume,yet weirdly original.The mainly slow tempos help to the deepness and mysticism covering the band's compositions.Plenty of breath-taking solos all around to calm things down.Dark passages with background keys and poetic lyrics are also in the menu.A very memorable release overall.

SOUNDS/INFLUENCES: Very much influenced by GENESIS and early-MARILLION,but sounding a lot more darker than the latter.

PLUS: A pretty memorable and unique prog style.Vocals are just beautiful.Keyboard work in the vein of Mark Kelly is one of the best to be listened in the Neo Prog league and offers also many unusual Gothic-like moments.Excellent guitar work by Max Michieletto both on rhythms and solos.A superb production to support the band's style.

MINUS: There is a lot in here to remind you of old MARILLION (guitars,keys,voice).

WILL APPEAL TO: it's weird...I can't even think of any serious prog lover not to add this album in his collection.

CONCLUSION/RATING: One of the best Neo/Symphonic Rock releases of the 90's.Melodic, theatrical, delicate, mysterious and very very personal.An underrated and unfortunately overlooked masterpiece to remember...5 stars!